Retirement for Bedford name • Vauxhall is dropping the Bedford
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name from its light CV range. From 1 June, all of its light commercials will carry the Vauxhall badge. This affects the Astra, Astramax, Midi and Brava families.
The future of the Bedford name is now subject to negotiation. AWD already uses it, with Vauxhall's permission, in some export markets, and may take it over.
The decision to drop the Bedford badge was reached after extensive market research among dealers, operators and existing users. The biggest factor was brand identification: Bedford is still thought of as a medium truck rather than a light CV producer. Further market research shows there should be no adverse effect on trade-in values. Vauxhall's plans include heavier models in the 3.5-tonne GVW class.
Dealers will not be affected by the decision; there are 390 specialist light CV dealers in the Vauxhall network.
The Bedford name was first used in 1930, on Chevrolet and GMC 12cwt and 30cwt trucks assembled at Hendon.
The first British models followed in 1931.